Claremont Lawn Tennis Club has claimed a historic State League victory, marking its first title win in more than 50 years and signalling a major resurgence for the western suburbs club.
The win, secured last Saturday at Cottesloe Tennis Club, is the first time Claremont has taken out the top-tier men’s State League competition since 1975 — and comes after more than two decades without any presence in the league.
Club president Rod O’Dea described the win as an amazing moment for the club, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary..
“We haven’t had a team for over 20 years,” he said.
“To not only return, but to win — and against such strong opposition — is just incredible.”
The grand final, hosted at Cottesloe Tennis Club, saw Claremont defeat a strong field, including a standout opponent who had gone undefeated all season until the decider.
“One of their players hadn’t lost all season,” Mr O’Dea said.
“So for our player to beat him in the singles was a huge moment.”
Camera IconHead coach, Andre Vaz Pinto, member since 1955 Derry Macqueen, and club president Rod O’Dea. Credit: Sandra Jackson/The West Australian
The winning team members included Sam Chapman, Jayden Court, Ethan Cook, Hans Bustiman, Tim Grey, Sam Ashenden, Simao Vaz Pinto and Stan Smith.
Mr Smith and Mr Vaz Pinto had previously competed under Peppermint Grove — last year’s champions — making this year’s title effectively a back-to-back win for the team, albeit under a new banner.
Looking ahead, the western suburb tennis club is hoping the win will boost both its profile and participation, particularly among junior players.
“We want to show younger members what’s possible,” Mr O’Dea said.
“Seeing top-level tennis up close gives them something to aspire to.”
While the State League marks the peak of competition in Western Australia, Mr O’Dea says some of their players will now move on to compete in national and international satellite tournaments.
In the meantime, the local club hopes to keep its own momentum going as they plan to return to the competition next season.